Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light trains in heavy weather

BARNEGAT LIGHT, N.J. ─ The crew of Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light conducted offshore surf and heavy weather training Wednesday and Thursday as 25-foot waves were recorded off Long Beach Island. The training was conducted in 10-16 foot open ocean swells and surf up to 15 feet.

The unit’s crew, including Surfmen, the Coast Guard’s most highly trained boat handlers, took advantage of the recent heavy weather and surf conditions to maintain readiness and the skills required to respond to maritime emergencies. The crew uses the 47-foot Motor Life Boat (MLB), which is designed as a first response rescue resource in high seas, surf and heavy weather environments. Motor Lifeboats are built to operate in these conditions and with skilled operators, can provide assistance to mariners.

The unpredictable offshore surf along New Jersey’s Barrier Island inlets requires the utmost boat driving skill and mastery. The station’s goal is to provide year-round assistance to boaters who have trouble navigating the strong waves and shifting sands of the inlet.

Chief Warrant Officer Jay Greiner, the unit’s commanding officer, would like to remind all mariners to check weather and tide reports prior to boating.

“The conditions on the water can change very rapidly and if you are not prepared it could jeopardize your boating experience,” said Greiner. “Always boat safe and smart, wear your life jacket, and tell a friend where you are going and what time to expect you back.”

The Station’s crew was recently presented with the Sumner I. Kimball Readiness Award, which recognizes the achievement of high readiness of shore unit boats and personnel through an inspection of vessel conditions and survival systems, performance of underway drills, and examination of unit training programs.